Procedural modeling

Procedural modeling is an umbrella term for a number of techniques in Computer graphics to create 3D models and textures (see texture mapping) from sets of rules. L-Systems, fractals, and generative modeling are procedural modeling techniques since they apply algorithms for producing scenes. The set of rules may either be embedded into the algorithm, configurable by parameters, or the set of rules is separate from the evaluation engine.

Although all modeling techniques on a computer require algorithms to manage and store data at some point, procedural modeling focuses on creating a model from a rule set, rather than editing the model by mouse.

Procedural Modeling is applied when it would be too cumbersome to create a model using general 3D modelers, or when more specialized tools are required. This is the case for plants and landscapes.

Examples for procedural modeling suites include:

• Generative Modelling Language
• Xfrog
• Bryce
• Terragen

Further Reading:

• "Texturing and Modeling: A Procedural Approach", Ebert, D., Musgrave, K., Peachey, P., Perlin, K., and Worley, S
• "Procedural Modeling of Cities", Yoav I H Parish, Pascal Müller